Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.
1. An image processing device, comprising: a selecting section configured to select, according to a prediction mode when performing intra prediction on a pixel of an object block to be an object of decoding processing by using an image obtained by performing the decoding processing on a bit stream as the object, whether to shift a phase of an adjacent pixel to be referenced when performing the intra prediction on the pixel of the object block by a shift amount or not to shift the phase of the adjacent pixel; an interpolation section configured to interpolate the adjacent pixel with the shift amount when the selecting section selects to shift the phase of the adjacent pixel, and not interpolate the adjacent pixel when the selecting section selects not to shift the phase of the adjacent pixel; and an intra predicting section configured to perform the intra prediction on the pixel of the object block by using the adjacent pixel when the selecting section selects not to shift the phase of the adjacent pixel, and perform the intra prediction on the pixel of the object block using the interpolated adjacent pixel when the selecting section selects to shift the phase of the adjacent pixel, wherein the selecting section shifts the phase of the adjacent pixel to a position with fractional pixel precision in a case of selecting to shift the phase of the adjacent pixel, wherein the selecting section selects, according to a direction of the prediction mode when performing the intra prediction, whether to shift the phase of an upper adjacent pixel adjacent to an upper portion of the object block along a horizontal direction or to shift the phase of a left adjacent pixel adjacent to a left portion of the object block along a vertical direction, wherein, when the direction of the prediction mode includes only a vertical direction, the selection section selects shifting the phase in the horizontal direction of the upper adjacent pixel adjacent to the upper portion of the object block, and wherein the selecting section, the interpolation section, and the intra predicting section are each implemented via at least one processor.
This invention relates to image processing for video decoding, specifically improving intra-prediction accuracy by selectively shifting the phase of reference pixels. During intra-prediction, adjacent pixels from previously decoded blocks are used to predict the current block's pixels. The invention addresses the problem of prediction inaccuracies caused by misalignment between reference pixels and the current block's structure, particularly in cases where the prediction mode direction does not perfectly match the block's content. The device includes a selection module that determines whether to shift the phase of reference pixels based on the prediction mode's direction. If shifting is selected, an interpolation module adjusts the reference pixels' positions with fractional precision. The intra-prediction module then uses either the original or shifted reference pixels to predict the current block's pixels. The selection is mode-dependent: for vertical prediction modes, the upper adjacent pixels are shifted horizontally, while for horizontal modes, the left adjacent pixels are shifted vertically. This adaptive phase shifting improves prediction accuracy by better aligning reference pixels with the current block's structure, particularly in cases where the prediction mode direction does not perfectly match the block's content. The entire process is implemented via one or more processors.
2. The image processing device according to claim 1 , wherein the selecting section selects, according to the prediction mode when performing the intra prediction, whether to shift the phase of the upper adjacent pixel along the horizontal direction or not to shift the phase of the upper adjacent pixel along the horizontal direction.
This invention relates to image processing devices, specifically those used for intra-frame prediction in video encoding. The problem addressed is improving prediction accuracy by optimizing the use of adjacent pixel data during intra prediction. In video encoding, intra prediction relies on neighboring pixels to predict pixel values within a block, but conventional methods may not fully leverage the spatial correlation between adjacent pixels, leading to suboptimal compression efficiency. The invention describes an image processing device that includes a selecting section configured to determine whether to apply a phase shift to the upper adjacent pixel along the horizontal direction during intra prediction. The decision is based on the prediction mode being used. For example, in certain prediction modes, shifting the phase of the upper adjacent pixel horizontally can enhance prediction accuracy by better aligning pixel data with the predicted block's characteristics. The device may also include a prediction section that generates predicted pixel values using the selected phase-shifted or non-phase-shifted upper adjacent pixel data. This adaptive phase-shifting mechanism allows the device to dynamically adjust pixel data usage, improving prediction quality and reducing residual errors, which in turn enhances compression efficiency. The invention is particularly useful in video encoding standards where intra prediction plays a critical role in achieving high compression ratios while maintaining image quality.
3. The image processing device according to claim 1 , wherein the selecting section selects, according to the prediction mode when performing the intra prediction, whether to shift the phase of the left adjacent pixel along the vertical direction or not to shift the phase of the left adjacent pixel along the vertical direction.
This invention relates to image processing devices, specifically those used for intra-frame prediction in video encoding. The problem addressed is improving prediction accuracy by optimizing the use of adjacent pixel data during intra prediction. In video encoding, intra prediction relies on neighboring pixels to predict current block pixels, but conventional methods may not fully account for phase shifts in pixel data, leading to suboptimal compression efficiency. The device includes a selecting section that determines whether to apply a vertical phase shift to the left adjacent pixel based on the selected prediction mode. The phase shift adjusts the position of the left adjacent pixel in the vertical direction, which can enhance prediction accuracy for certain prediction modes. For example, in angular prediction modes where pixel values are extrapolated along a diagonal direction, shifting the phase of the left adjacent pixel can better align with the prediction direction, reducing prediction errors. The decision to shift or not shift is made dynamically based on the prediction mode, ensuring optimal use of reference pixel data. This adaptive approach improves compression efficiency by minimizing residual errors after prediction. The invention is particularly useful in video codecs where accurate intra prediction is critical for achieving high compression ratios while maintaining image quality.
4. The image processing device according to claim 1 , wherein the selecting section does not shift the phase of the adjacent pixel in the case of performing the intra prediction using an average value of the adjacent pixel.
This invention relates to image processing devices that perform intra prediction, a technique used in video compression to estimate pixel values based on neighboring pixels. A common challenge in intra prediction is accurately handling edge pixels where neighboring pixel data may be incomplete or unreliable, leading to artifacts or reduced compression efficiency. The device includes a selecting section that determines whether to shift the phase of adjacent pixels during intra prediction. Specifically, when performing intra prediction using an average value of adjacent pixels, the selecting section avoids shifting the phase of those adjacent pixels. This prevents distortion that could occur if phase shifting were applied unnecessarily, ensuring smoother and more accurate predictions. The device also includes a prediction section that generates predicted pixel values based on the selected prediction method and a correction section that adjusts the predicted values to improve accuracy. The invention improves compression efficiency and image quality by dynamically adapting the prediction process. By selectively applying phase shifting only when necessary, it avoids introducing artifacts while maintaining high compression ratios. This is particularly useful in video encoding standards like H.264 or HEVC, where intra prediction plays a critical role in reducing redundancy. The solution enhances the reliability of predicted pixel values, especially in regions with complex textures or edges.
5. The image processing device according to claim 1 , wherein the selecting section shifts the adjacent pixel to the position with fractional pixel precision by using an interpolation method used when performing movement compensation with fractional pixel precision.
This invention relates to image processing, specifically improving motion compensation in video encoding or decoding by enhancing pixel interpolation for fractional pixel precision. The problem addressed is the need for accurate motion compensation to reduce artifacts in video frames, particularly when sub-pixel (fractional pixel) shifts are required to align blocks between frames. Traditional methods may introduce interpolation errors, degrading visual quality. The device includes a selecting section that shifts adjacent pixels to precise fractional pixel positions using interpolation techniques optimized for motion compensation. This involves applying interpolation methods such as bilinear or bicubic filtering to estimate pixel values at non-integer positions, ensuring smooth and accurate motion compensation. The interpolation method is chosen to minimize distortion and computational overhead while maintaining high-quality reconstruction of moving objects. The device may also include a motion vector calculation section to determine the necessary shifts and a compensation section to apply the interpolated shifts to the image data. The overall system improves video compression efficiency and visual fidelity by refining the alignment of image blocks during motion compensation.
6. The image processing device according to claim 5 , wherein the selecting section shifts the adjacent pixel by using an interpolation filter used when performing the movement compensation with fractional pixel precision.
This invention relates to image processing devices that perform movement compensation with fractional pixel precision. The problem addressed is improving the accuracy of movement compensation by refining the selection of adjacent pixels used in interpolation. The device includes a selecting section that shifts adjacent pixels using an interpolation filter. This filter is the same one applied during movement compensation to achieve sub-pixel precision. By applying the same interpolation filter to adjacent pixels, the device ensures consistency in pixel selection and enhances the accuracy of motion estimation and compensation. The interpolation filter may use techniques such as bilinear or bicubic filtering to generate intermediate pixel values. This approach reduces artifacts and improves the quality of motion-compensated frames, particularly in video encoding and decoding applications. The invention is applicable in video compression standards like H.264/AVC or HEVC, where precise motion compensation is critical for efficient encoding. The selecting section dynamically adjusts pixel positions based on the interpolation filter's parameters, ensuring alignment with the fractional pixel precision requirements of the movement compensation process. This method avoids discrepancies between the interpolation used for pixel selection and the one used for compensation, leading to more accurate motion vectors and better visual quality.
7. The image processing device according to claim 1 , wherein the selecting section shifts the phase of the adjacent pixel by using linear interpolation processing with fractional pixel precision.
This invention relates to image processing, specifically improving the accuracy of phase shifting in image processing devices. The problem addressed is the need for precise phase adjustment of adjacent pixels to enhance image quality, particularly in applications requiring high-resolution or detailed image analysis. The image processing device includes a selecting section that performs phase shifting of adjacent pixels. The key innovation is the use of linear interpolation processing with fractional pixel precision to adjust the phase. This technique allows for finer control over pixel positioning, reducing artifacts and improving image clarity. The linear interpolation method ensures smooth transitions between pixel values, avoiding abrupt changes that can degrade image quality. The device may also include other components, such as an input section for receiving image data and an output section for providing processed images. The selecting section operates by analyzing the input image data and applying the phase shift with fractional precision, which can be particularly useful in applications like medical imaging, satellite imaging, or high-resolution displays where pixel-level accuracy is critical. By using linear interpolation with fractional pixel precision, the device achieves more accurate phase adjustments compared to traditional integer-based methods. This results in improved image sharpness, reduced distortion, and better overall visual fidelity. The technique is applicable to various image processing tasks, including noise reduction, edge detection, and image reconstruction.
8. The image processing device according to claim 1 , wherein the selecting section shifts the phase of the adjacent pixel by using an interpolation filter used when performing movement compensation with fractional pixel precision and linear interpolation processing with fractional pixel precision.
This invention relates to image processing devices, specifically those used for motion compensation in video encoding or decoding. The problem addressed is improving the accuracy of motion compensation by refining the handling of fractional pixel precision during interpolation. The device includes a selecting section that adjusts the phase of adjacent pixels using an interpolation filter. This filter is applied during motion compensation to achieve fractional pixel precision, ensuring smoother transitions between frames. The interpolation process involves linear interpolation with fractional pixel precision, which enhances the accuracy of motion estimation by allowing sub-pixel shifts. The selecting section dynamically shifts the phase of adjacent pixels to optimize the interpolation, reducing artifacts and improving visual quality. The interpolation filter used is designed to handle fractional pixel shifts, which are common in motion compensation where objects move between integer pixel positions. By applying linear interpolation with fractional precision, the device ensures that intermediate pixel values are calculated accurately, minimizing distortion. The phase adjustment of adjacent pixels further refines the interpolation, adapting to the local motion characteristics of the video content. This approach is particularly useful in video compression standards like H.264 or HEVC, where precise motion compensation is critical for efficient encoding. The invention improves upon traditional methods by incorporating adaptive phase shifting and high-precision interpolation, leading to better compression efficiency and visual fidelity.
9. The image processing device according to claim 1 , wherein the selecting section shifts the phase of the adjacent pixel to a position with pixel precision of ¼ pixel precision or less.
This invention relates to image processing, specifically improving image quality by adjusting pixel phase alignment. The problem addressed is the presence of phase misalignment between adjacent pixels, which can degrade image sharpness and clarity. Traditional methods often lack fine-grained control over pixel phase adjustments, leading to suboptimal results. The invention describes an image processing device that includes a selecting section configured to shift the phase of an adjacent pixel. The phase adjustment is performed with high precision, specifically at a resolution of ¼ pixel or finer. This fine-grained control allows for more accurate alignment of pixel phases, reducing artifacts and enhancing image quality. The device may also include other components, such as an image input section for receiving image data and an image output section for providing processed image data. The phase shifting process involves analyzing the spatial relationship between adjacent pixels and determining the optimal phase adjustment to minimize misalignment. The selecting section applies this adjustment, ensuring that the phase difference between pixels is minimized to within ¼ pixel precision or better. This precise alignment helps maintain sharpness and reduces blurring or distortion in the final image. By enabling sub-pixel phase adjustments, the invention improves upon conventional methods that rely on coarser phase corrections. The result is a more refined and accurate image processing technique, particularly useful in applications requiring high-resolution imaging, such as medical imaging, surveillance, and high-end photography.
10. The image processing device according to claim 1 , further comprising: a decoding section to perform the decoding processing on the bit stream by using a prediction image generated by the intra predicting section, wherein the decoding section is implemented via at least one processor.
This invention relates to image processing devices, specifically those used for decoding video bitstreams. The problem addressed is the need for efficient and accurate decoding of compressed video data, particularly when relying on intra-frame prediction to reconstruct images. Intra-frame prediction uses information from the same frame to predict pixel values, reducing redundancy and improving compression efficiency. The device includes a decoding section that processes a bitstream by leveraging a prediction image generated by an intra-predicting section. The intra-predicting section analyzes spatial correlations within the frame to create a prediction image, which the decoding section uses to reconstruct the original image data. The decoding section performs the necessary inverse transformations and combines the prediction image with residual data from the bitstream to produce the final decoded image. This approach enhances decoding accuracy and reduces computational overhead by minimizing redundant calculations. The decoding section is implemented via at least one processor, ensuring flexibility in hardware or software deployment. The system is designed to handle various video compression standards, improving efficiency in applications like video streaming, surveillance, and multimedia playback. The invention optimizes the decoding process by integrating intra-frame prediction, reducing bandwidth and processing requirements while maintaining high-quality image reconstruction.
11. An image processing method, comprising: selecting, according to a prediction mode when performing intra prediction on a pixel of an object block to be an object of decoding processing by using an image obtained by performing the decoding processing on a bit stream as the object, whether to shift a phase of an adjacent pixel to be referenced when performing the intra prediction on the pixel of the object block by a shift amount or not to shift the phase of the adjacent pixel; not interpolating the adjacent pixel when selecting not to shift the phase of the adjacent pixel; interpolating the adjacent pixel with the shift amount when selecting to shift the phase of the adjacent pixel; and performing the intra prediction on the pixel of the object block by using the adjacent pixel when selecting not to shift the phase of the adjacent pixel, and performing the intra prediction on the pixel of the object block by using the interpolated adjacent pixel when selecting to shift the phase of the adjacent pixel, wherein the phase of the adjacent pixel is shifted to a position with fractional pixel precision in a case of selecting to shift the phase of the adjacent pixel, and wherein, the selection of whether to shift the phase of an adjacent pixel includes selecting, according to a direction of the prediction mode when performing the intra prediction, whether to shift the phase of an upper adjacent pixel adjacent to an upper portion of the object block along a horizontal direction or to shift the phase of a left adjacent pixel adjacent to a left portion of the object block along a vertical direction, wherein, the selection of whether to shift the phase of an adjacent pixel includes, when the direction of the prediction mode includes only a vertical direction, selecting to shift the phase in the horizontal direction of the upper adjacent pixel adjacent to the upper portion of the object block.
This invention relates to image processing, specifically intra prediction in video decoding. The problem addressed is improving prediction accuracy by selectively shifting the phase of reference pixels used in intra prediction. During decoding, when performing intra prediction on a pixel of a block, the method determines whether to shift the phase of adjacent reference pixels (upper or left neighbors) based on the prediction mode's direction. If shifting is selected, the adjacent pixel is interpolated with a specified shift amount to achieve fractional pixel precision. The prediction is then performed using either the original or interpolated reference pixel. For prediction modes with only a vertical direction, the phase of the upper adjacent pixel is shifted horizontally. This technique enhances prediction accuracy by adaptively adjusting reference pixel positions, particularly useful in video compression where precise intra prediction reduces residual data and improves efficiency. The method avoids unnecessary interpolation when no phase shift is needed, optimizing computational resources.
12. The image processing method according to claim 11 , wherein the selecting of whether to shift or not to shift the phase of an adjacent pixel includes selecting, according to the prediction mode when performing the intra prediction, whether to shift the phase of the upper adjacent pixel along the horizontal direction or not to shift the phase of the upper adjacent pixel along the horizontal direction.
This invention relates to image processing techniques, specifically improving intra prediction in video encoding by selectively shifting the phase of adjacent pixels. Intra prediction is a method used in video compression to predict pixel values within a frame based on neighboring pixels, reducing redundancy. A common challenge is accurately predicting pixel values when neighboring pixels are misaligned or exhibit phase discrepancies, leading to prediction errors and reduced compression efficiency. The method addresses this by determining whether to shift the phase of an adjacent pixel during intra prediction based on the prediction mode. For example, when performing intra prediction, the system evaluates whether to shift the phase of an upper adjacent pixel along the horizontal direction or leave it unshifted. This selective phase adjustment ensures that the prediction process accounts for potential misalignments, improving accuracy and compression efficiency. The decision to shift or not shift is made dynamically according to the prediction mode, allowing the system to adapt to different patterns in the image data. By incorporating this phase-shifting technique, the method enhances the reliability of intra prediction, particularly in scenarios where neighboring pixels are not perfectly aligned. This results in more accurate predictions, reduced residual errors, and improved overall video compression performance. The approach is applicable to various video encoding standards and can be integrated into existing encoding pipelines to optimize prediction accuracy.
13. The image processing method according to claim 11 , wherein the selecting of whether to shift or not to shift the phase of an adjacent pixel includes selecting, according to the prediction mode when performing the intra prediction, whether to shift the phase of the left adjacent pixel along the vertical direction or not to shift the phase of the left adjacent pixel along the vertical direction.
Image processing for video compression. Addresses the problem of efficiently performing intra-prediction, a technique used to predict pixels within a current image frame based on previously encoded pixels. Specifically, this method involves deciding whether to apply a phase shift to a left adjacent pixel during the intra-prediction process. This decision is made based on the prediction mode being utilized for the intra-prediction. The method determines whether to shift the phase of the left adjacent pixel along the vertical direction or to forgo such a shift, thereby influencing the accuracy and efficiency of the intra-prediction.
14. The image processing method according to claim 11 , wherein the phase of the adjacent pixel is not shifted in a case of performing the intra prediction using an average value of the adjacent pixel.
This invention relates to image processing, specifically improving intra prediction in video encoding. Intra prediction is a technique used to reduce redundancy within a single frame by predicting pixel values based on neighboring pixels. A common challenge is accurately predicting pixel values when neighboring pixels have varying phases, which can lead to artifacts and reduced compression efficiency. The invention addresses this by modifying the intra prediction process when using an average value of adjacent pixels. Specifically, it ensures that the phase of the adjacent pixel is not shifted during prediction. This prevents phase distortion, which can occur when averaging pixels with different phases, and improves prediction accuracy. The method is particularly useful in scenarios where neighboring pixels have phase differences, such as in smooth regions or edges, where phase preservation is critical for maintaining image quality. The technique involves analyzing the phase relationship of adjacent pixels before performing intra prediction. If the prediction relies on an average of these pixels, the method ensures that the phase of the adjacent pixel remains unchanged, avoiding artifacts that would otherwise degrade the reconstructed image. This approach enhances compression efficiency while maintaining visual quality, making it suitable for modern video encoding standards.
15. The image processing method according to claim 11 , wherein the adjacent pixel is shifted to the position with fractional pixel precision by using an interpolation method used when performing movement compensation with fractional pixel precision.
This invention relates to image processing techniques, specifically methods for enhancing the accuracy of pixel shifting in image processing applications. The problem addressed is the need for precise pixel manipulation, particularly in scenarios requiring fractional pixel precision, such as motion compensation in video encoding or image alignment. Traditional methods often lack the necessary precision or introduce artifacts due to inadequate interpolation techniques. The method involves shifting an adjacent pixel to a new position with fractional pixel precision using an interpolation method. This interpolation method is the same as the one employed during motion compensation processes that require fractional pixel precision. By leveraging this approach, the method ensures that pixel shifts are smooth and accurate, minimizing distortion and improving overall image quality. The interpolation technique may include methods like bilinear or bicubic interpolation, which are commonly used in video processing to estimate pixel values at non-integer positions. This ensures consistency and reliability in the pixel shifting process, making it suitable for applications where high precision is critical, such as video compression, image stabilization, or super-resolution imaging. The method can be applied in various image processing pipelines to enhance the accuracy of pixel-level adjustments.
16. The image processing method according to claim 15 , wherein the adjacent pixel is shifted by using an interpolation filter used when performing the movement compensation with fractional pixel precision.
This invention relates to image processing techniques, specifically methods for improving motion compensation in video encoding or decoding. The problem addressed is the need for accurate motion compensation to reduce artifacts and improve video quality, particularly when dealing with fractional pixel precision. The method involves processing image data by analyzing adjacent pixels in a reference frame to determine motion vectors for motion compensation. A key aspect is the use of an interpolation filter to shift adjacent pixels during motion compensation. This interpolation filter is specifically designed for fractional pixel precision, allowing for smoother and more accurate motion estimation and compensation. The interpolation filter helps in generating intermediate pixel values that are not directly available in the original image, thereby improving the accuracy of motion compensation. By applying this interpolation filter to adjacent pixels, the method ensures that motion compensation is performed with higher precision, reducing visual artifacts such as blurring or blocking. This technique is particularly useful in video compression standards where efficient motion compensation is critical for maintaining high-quality video at lower bitrates. The interpolation filter may be applied in various stages of the motion compensation process, including during the calculation of motion vectors or the actual compensation of pixel values. The overall result is improved video quality with reduced distortion and better preservation of fine details.
17. The image processing method according to claim 11 , wherein the phase of the adjacent pixel is shifted by using linear interpolation processing with fractional pixel precision.
This invention relates to image processing techniques for enhancing image quality by adjusting pixel phase information. The method addresses the problem of artifacts and distortions in images caused by misaligned or improperly processed pixel data, particularly in applications like image reconstruction, super-resolution, or motion estimation. The technique involves analyzing the phase of adjacent pixels in an image and applying a linear interpolation process to shift the phase with fractional pixel precision. This allows for smoother transitions and more accurate pixel alignment, reducing visual artifacts. The interpolation is performed with sub-pixel accuracy, enabling finer adjustments than traditional integer-based methods. The method can be applied to various image processing tasks, including noise reduction, edge enhancement, and motion compensation, where precise phase alignment is critical. By using linear interpolation, the technique ensures computational efficiency while maintaining high accuracy in phase correction. The invention improves image quality by minimizing phase-related distortions and enhancing overall visual fidelity.
18. The image processing method according to claim 11 , wherein the phase of the adjacent pixel is shifted by using an interpolation filter used when performing movement compensation with fractional pixel precision and linear interpolation processing with fractional pixel precision.
This technical summary describes an image processing method for enhancing motion compensation in video encoding or decoding. The method addresses the challenge of accurately estimating motion between frames, particularly when sub-pixel precision is required. Traditional motion compensation techniques often rely on interpolation filters to estimate intermediate pixel values, but these can introduce artifacts or inaccuracies. The method improves motion compensation by applying a phase shift to the phase of an adjacent pixel using an interpolation filter. This interpolation filter is specifically designed for fractional pixel precision, allowing for smoother and more accurate motion estimation. The process involves linear interpolation with fractional pixel precision, which helps refine the motion vectors by interpolating between integer pixel positions. By adjusting the phase of adjacent pixels, the method reduces distortion and improves the quality of the compensated image. The interpolation filter used in this method is optimized for fractional pixel precision, ensuring that the motion compensation process is both efficient and accurate. This approach is particularly useful in video compression standards where high-quality motion estimation is critical for reducing bitrate while maintaining visual fidelity. The method can be applied in various video processing applications, including real-time encoding, transcoding, and playback systems.
19. The image processing method according to claim 11 , wherein the phase of the adjacent pixel is shifted to a position with pixel precision of ¼ pixel precision or less.
This invention relates to image processing techniques for enhancing the accuracy of phase estimation in pixel data. The method addresses the challenge of achieving high-precision phase measurements in digital images, particularly when processing signals from adjacent pixels. The core innovation involves shifting the phase of an adjacent pixel to a position with a precision of ¼ pixel or finer. This refinement improves the accuracy of phase detection by reducing errors that arise from discrete pixel sampling. The technique is particularly useful in applications such as optical flow estimation, motion tracking, and high-resolution imaging, where precise phase information is critical. By adjusting the phase with sub-pixel precision, the method enables more accurate reconstruction of continuous signals from discrete pixel data. The process involves analyzing the phase relationship between adjacent pixels and applying a correction to align the phase within a tighter tolerance. This ensures that subsequent image processing steps, such as interpolation or filtering, operate on more accurate phase information, leading to improved overall image quality and reliability. The method is designed to work with existing image processing pipelines, enhancing their performance without requiring significant modifications.
20. The image processing method according to claim 11 , wherein the decoding processing is performed on the bit stream by using a prediction image.
This invention relates to image processing methods, specifically for decoding bit streams in video compression systems. The problem addressed is improving the efficiency and accuracy of image reconstruction during video decoding by leveraging prediction images. The method involves decoding a bit stream that contains encoded video data, where the decoding process utilizes a prediction image to reconstruct the final output image. The prediction image is generated based on previously decoded frames or intra-frame predictions, reducing the amount of data that needs to be transmitted and processed. This approach enhances compression efficiency while maintaining high-quality image reconstruction. The method is particularly useful in applications where bandwidth and computational resources are limited, such as video streaming, video conferencing, and real-time video processing. By incorporating prediction images into the decoding process, the invention reduces the computational load and improves the overall performance of video decoding systems. The technique can be applied to various video coding standards, including but not limited to H.264, H.265 (HEVC), and AV1, where prediction-based decoding is a key component. The invention ensures that the decoded images are accurately reconstructed while minimizing artifacts and distortions, providing a seamless viewing experience for end-users.
21. A non-transitory computer-readable medium having embodied thereon a program, which when executed by a computer causes the computer to execute an image processing method, the method comprising: selecting, according to a prediction mode when performing intra prediction on a pixel of an object block to be an object of decoding processing by using an image obtained by performing the decoding processing on a bit stream as the object, whether to shift a phase of an adjacent pixel to be referenced when performing the intra prediction on the pixel of the object block by a shift amount or not to shift the phase of the adjacent pixel; not interpolating the adjacent pixel when selecting not to shift the phase of the adjacent pixel; interpolating the adjacent pixel with the shift amount when selecting to shift the phase of the adjacent pixel; and performing the intra prediction on the pixel of the object block by using the adjacent pixel when selecting not to shift the phase of the adjacent pixel, and performing the intra prediction on the pixel of the object block by using the interpolated adjacent pixel when selecting to shift the phase of the adjacent pixel, wherein the phase of the adjacent pixel is shifted to a position with fractional pixel precision in a case of selecting to shift the phase of the adjacent pixel, and wherein, the selection of whether to shift the phase of an adjacent pixel includes selecting, according to a direction of the prediction mode when performing the intra prediction, whether to shift the phase of an upper adjacent pixel adjacent to an upper portion of the object block along a horizontal direction or to shift the phase of a left adjacent pixel adjacent to a left portion of the object block along a vertical direction, wherein, the selection of whether to shift the phase of an adjacent pixel includes, when the direction of the prediction mode includes only a vertical direction, selecting to shift the phase in the horizontal direction of the upper adjacent pixel adjacent to the upper portion of the object block.
This invention relates to image processing, specifically to intra prediction techniques used in video decoding. The problem addressed is improving prediction accuracy by selectively shifting the phase of adjacent reference pixels during intra prediction. The method involves determining whether to shift the phase of adjacent pixels based on the prediction mode direction. If no shift is selected, the adjacent pixels are used as-is for prediction. If a shift is selected, the adjacent pixels are interpolated with fractional pixel precision before being used. The shift direction depends on the prediction mode: for vertical prediction modes, the phase of the upper adjacent pixels is shifted horizontally. This technique enhances prediction accuracy by dynamically adjusting reference pixel positions, particularly useful in video compression where precise pixel alignment can reduce artifacts and improve coding efficiency. The method is implemented via a computer program stored on a non-transitory medium, executing the described steps during decoding of a bitstream.
22. The image processing device according to claim 1 , wherein, when the direction of the prediction mode includes only the vertical direction, the selection section does not select shifting the phase in the vertical direction of the upper adjacent pixel adjacent to the upper portion of the object block.
The invention relates to image processing, specifically to techniques for improving prediction accuracy in video encoding by selectively adjusting pixel phase shifts. The problem addressed is the inefficiency in conventional methods where phase shifts are applied uniformly, leading to suboptimal prediction and increased computational overhead. The solution involves an image processing device that selectively skips phase shifting in the vertical direction when the prediction mode is purely vertical. This avoids unnecessary processing while maintaining prediction accuracy. The device includes a selection section that determines whether to apply phase shifting based on the prediction mode direction. If the prediction mode is vertical-only, the selection section prevents phase shifting of the upper adjacent pixel relative to the object block. This selective approach reduces computational complexity without degrading image quality. The invention improves encoding efficiency by dynamically adapting phase shift operations to the prediction mode, particularly in scenarios where vertical prediction is dominant. The technique is applicable in video compression standards where accurate prediction is critical for reducing bitrate while preserving visual quality.
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August 25, 2020
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